La Palma and Gomera, in western Canary Islands; also discovered on Tenerife in 1975, where now established as a breeding bird.
Rarity Status
Currently this species is not classified as a rarity in this country OR information has not been updated.
Population
Estimated population is 3,000 - 7,500 (2010) and decreasing.
Status NT
Habitat destruction and fragmentation, predation by feral cats are the main threats.
For more information see BirdLife International Species Factsheet.
Laurel Pigeon (Columba) [XC722016]
by SonoNatura from Cubo la Galga B (near Llano Molino), Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canarias, Spain (song)
Laurel Pigeon (Columba) [XC122544]
by Lars Theng from Isla de la Palma, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain (song)
Subspecies
Probably part of the Common Woodpigeon (Columba palumbus) species-group also including Afep Pigeon (Columba unicincta), Dark-tailed Laurel-pigeon (Columba bollii) and Madeira Laurel-pigeon (Columba trocaz), but some authors consider it a distinct form only rather distantly allied to this group. Columba laurivora is a synonym.
No subspecies.
Similar Species
Dark-tailed Laurel-pigeon (Columba bollii) which has a pale grey subterminal band and blackish terminal band to tail, dark tail base and rump and overall slate-grey colouration.
References
See References.
BirdLife International Species Factsheet